Introduction
Prof. V. Mohammed's Contributions to Malayalam Quranic Lexicography and Translation
1.Prof. V. Mohammed and Malayalam Word Meanings in Quranic Context
Prof. V. Mohammed is recognized for his specialized work onQuranic terminology in Malayalam, particularly focusing on thesemantic nuances and contextual applicationsof Arabic words translated into Malayalam. His contributions lie in bridging linguistic gaps between Arabic and Malayalam, ensuring that Quranic verses retain their theological precision while being accessible to Malayalam-speaking readers. For instance, his translations emphasizeroot word analysis(e.g., tracingḥikmahto "wisdom" ortawḥīdto "monotheism") and contextual exegesis, aligning with classical Islamic scholarship traditions.
His work is notable for itspedagogical approach, where he provides detailed word-by-word breakdowns in Malayalam, enabling learners to grasp both the literal and metaphorical layers of Quranic Arabic. This methodology is particularly evident in his appAl Quran Malayalam Translation, which integrates lexical explanations directly into the translated text.
2.Holy Quran Translation in Malayalam: Historical and Scholarly Landscape
The translation of the Quran into Malayalam has a rich history spanning over a century. Key milestones include:
19th-century efforts: Early translations likeTharja Mathu Thafseer il Quran(1894) by Muhiyudheen ibn Abdul Khader focused on literal rendering but lacked linguistic refinement.Mid-20th-century advancements: Works by scholars likeAmani Moulavi(1960s) introduced more contextual accuracy, blending classicaltafsīr(exegesis) with modern Malayalam prose. Amani’s translation, republished by Kerala Najva thul Mujahideen, remains authoritative.Digital era: Apps likeMalayalam Quran MajeedandAl Quran Malayalam(developed by Prof. V. Mohammed) have democratized access to Quranic texts, offering audio recitations, tafsīr summaries, and interactive word searches.
Prof. V. Mohammed’s translation stands out for itssyntactic fidelityto Arabic structure while ensuring Malayalam readability. For example, his rendering ofSurah Al-Fātiḥahbalances poetic 韵律 with doctrinal clarity, avoiding archaic Malayalam phrasing that might alienate contemporary readers.
3.Al Quran Malayalam Translation Project: Scope and Features
TheAl Quran Malayalam Translationproject, spearheaded by Prof. V. Mohammed, is amultimedia initiativedesigned to cater to both devotional and academic needs. Key features include:
Bilingual Interface: Side-by-side Arabic and Malayalam text, with clickable word definitions.Audio Integration: Recitations by renowned Qaris (e.g., Sheikh Saad Al-Ghamdi) synchronized with translated verses, aiding memorization.Thematic Search: Users can filter verses by keywords (e.g.,mercy,justice) or theological concepts, supported by cross-referencedtafsīrexcerpts.Offline Access: The app allows downloads of full Surahs, making it suitable for regions with limited internet connectivity.
Notably, the project emphasizescommunity-driven updates, with Prof. Mohammed collaborating with Malayalam linguists to refine translations based on user feedback. This iterative process ensures cultural relevance—for example, adapting idiomatic expressions in Kerala’s diverse Muslim communities.
4.Legacy and Impact
Prof. V. Mohammed’s work has been pivotal inrevitalizing Quranic studies in Malayalam, particularly among younger generations. His appAl Quran Malayalam Translationhas garnered over 500,000 downloads, reflecting its popularity. Academically, his lexical analyses have been cited in comparative studies on Quranic translations across Indian languages, highlighting the challenges of preservingsharīʿahprinciples in regional vernaculars.
Critics praise hiseclectic approach, which balances traditional scholarship (e.g., referencingTafsīr al-Jalālayn) with modern linguistic tools. However, some argue that his focus onliteral translationoccasionally sacrifices Malayalam’s poetic richness—a trade-off he justifies as necessary for theological accuracy.
Conclusion
Prof. V. Mohammed’s contributions to Malayalam Quranic translation exemplify the interplay betweenlinguistic precisionandspiritual accessibility. His work not only serves as a devotional tool but also as a scholarly resource, bridging the gap between Arabic scriptural heritage and Malayalam’s cultural milieu. Through projects likeAl Quran Malayalam Translation, he has ensured that the Quran remains a living text for millions of Malayalam speakers, blending tradition with innovation in a rapidly digitizing world.
